News, Week 10, Term 3, 2025

This issue

1. Principal’s Message
2. Important Dates
3. Finance Information
4. Continuing at the ASMS in 2026
5. Enrichment News
6. Pathways Update
7. Year 12 Biology
8. Learning Studies
9. International Science Fair
10. Homestay Opportunities in Term 4
11. Primary Maths Extension Group Session 3
12. R U OK? Day
13. Service Club Christmas Donations
14. Men’s Health Forum hosted by Louise Miller-Frost MP
15. Library News

Principal’s Message

Year 12: The finishing line is in sight for our Year 12s; the coming holidays might be busy with finalising the last few assignments and getting ready for exams. Year 12s have been informed of the available revision/ work sessions during the Term 3 holidays. Please don’t forget to sign in when you arrive and again when you leave.

Year 11 Pathway Choices: Our Year 11s are currently considering their learning pathway for Year 12 and the Web Preferences signed form is due Friday 26/9/24. A reminder that the Year 12 program is interdisciplinary, however the extent to which the students explore these links is up to them.

Next Generation Learning Initiative: Last Monday our school started the multi-school collaborative project, the Next-Generation Learning initiative, a system-wide program designed to broaden definitions of learning success and explore innovative approaches to assessment and reporting that strengthen learner agency, build on student passions, and develop competencies for lifelong learning. Our students and staff shared their ideas and feedback to help shape this exciting work and we will keep you informed as the project scope is developed.

Tailored Learning Program (TLP): TLP is the Department for Education’s key intervention to support secondary students at risk of disengaging from their learning, helping them stay connected and achieve success. During their visit to ASMS earlier in the year, the TLP team were impressed by the many ways we embed a culture of student voice, inclusion, and belonging. From this we were invited to share our approach at the Tailored Learning Leaders’ Day last Friday. Our presentation provided “valuable guidance for leaders in embedding inclusive practices that strengthen tailored learning and support improved learning outcomes for students.” They highlighted the practical strategies and examples shared by our staff, students, and parents as “equipping leaders with new perspectives and tools to take back to their schools.” It was good to hear from leaders afterwards who praised our students for the way they contributed, recognising the strong partnerships that underpin our school community.

Staffing News: I’d like to thank Wendy Li for her work in the X and Why? team for Term 3 where she quickly developed effective relationships with students and has been able to support them to demonstrate high quality learning evidence. We’re excited to welcome back Campbell Harvey and Richard Greig in Term 4. Kay Gillett and Jason Backler will be on the Canada Trip in Week 2 of the holidays and for Week 1. 

Happy Holidays,

Kylie Eggers, Principal

Important Dates in Term 4

Finance Information

Re: Materials & Services Charge 2026 – Notice

In accordance with government Administrative Instructions and Guidelines issued by The Department for Education relating to the Materials and Services Charge for 2026, please find attached the proposed “Notice of Charges” for our Year 10-12 students.

The “Notice of Charges” provides a breakdown of the Materials and Services Charge.  The 2026 charge for ASMS will remain the same as it did for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

I wish to advise you that the Australian Science and Mathematics School proposed Materials and Services Charge for 2026 will be presented at the next Governing Council meeting, to be held on Monday 3 November at the ASMS for discussion and voting.  Accordingly, parent/caregivers are invited to attend this meeting as you are to all Governing Council meetings. Please note that voting is restricted only to elected members of the Governing Council.

In lieu of attendance at the meeting, parents can express their views in writing to our Governing Council Chairperson – Jamie Wright via governing.council@asms.sa.edu.au.

If parents/caregivers have any questions, please contact the Business Manager, Angela Murphy on (08) 8201 5690 or angela.murphy@asms.sa.edu.au.

Introducing School Easy-Pay

ASMS is excited to introduce School Easy-Pay to simplify the way we collect payments for excursions and other fees. Easy-Pay offers a secure and stress-free platform for managing payments, with features like access to payment history, updating details, and making one-off payments. Both parents and the school will have secure logins, ensuring convenience and ease of use. Best of all, there is no additional cost to families for using Easy-Pay. For more information, please contact Angela Murphy on 82015690.

Continuing at the ASMS in 2026

As we start to plan for 2026, we would ask that if your child does not intend to continue at the Australian Science and Mathematics School for the 2026 school year, that you let us know as soon as possible via a phone call to the school on (08) 8201 5686 or via email to info@asms.sa.edu.au.

It is important that we receive this information by the end of Week 1, Term 4 (13 October 2025).

Enrichment News

Criminology guest speakers from Flinders University

There are several students studying various aspects of both Criminology and Psychology as part of their Passion Projects, so we organised some wonderful guest speakers from Flinders University to give them the opportunity to hear from experts in the field.

“Learning about all of the injustice and inequality involved in the legal system opened my eyes to the reality and the misconceptions about prison and crime.” – Trent, Year 10

“One of the most interesting presentations I have been to, it was so helpful to find out about what a criminologist might actually do in their day-to-day.” – Ren, Year 10

“One thing I found interesting from this session was the stigmas and social stereotypes that are explored within a criminology degree and how we are given the opportunity to challenge that thinking.” – Felix, Year 11

SAGE Automation and BAE Systems

During Week 6 this term we provided opportunities for a number of students to attend local industries at Tonsley to experience Engineering ‘in the real world’. Students attended tours, workshops and Q&As at both BAE Systems and SAGE Automation. In particular students go to see firsthand the interdisciplinary nature of engineering and the collaboration and level of communication skills needed, these are all transferable to their current Engineering a Monster projects and solution realisation in their Central Studies.

“I enjoyed learning about BAE Systems in particular and how we got to interact with laser 3D modelling technology.” – Cem, Year 10

SAHLN (Southern Adelaide Local Health Network) Research Week

In Week 9 on Wednesday 17 September, Richard Pope took a group of Year 10-12 students to the Flinders Medical Centre for the Southern Research Week at SALHN.

This exciting week that provided an opportunity to showcase excellence in innovation and research, celebrate research achievements, and connect with key national and international experts through keynote sessions. Students thoroughly enjoyed it and got some more information regarding their individual pathways in the medical and health field.

“The medical excursion was really useful and gave me a good insight into what the medical industry has to offer. There were expert professors and other people who gave us different insights about medicine. This will really help me further down the line for my UCAT interview and UCAT sub-section of SJT, which involves material related to patient interaction.” – Aarav, Year 11

“Yesterday, I had the chance to visit Flinders Medical Centre, and it was an eye-opening experience. I got to hear from people working in different medical professions, each sharing their own perspective on what they do. I also listened to Flinders University students talk about the research projects they’re working on, which made me realise how much innovation happens behind the scenes in healthcare. The whole day was not only fun but also inspiring, as it gave me a clearer idea of the many career paths that exist in medicine.” – Shiwani, Year 10

“The Southern Adelaide Local Health Network Research Week excursion was a great introduction to pathways and options in the field of research. We heard from a panel of people who are involved in research, including a social worker, health administrator, nurse/midwife, medical officer, and cancer researcher. The panel discussed their backgrounds, how they became involved in research, the skills they use and what their roles look like. We also had the opportunity to see some of the poster presentations and exhibits that were part of the event.” – Amber, Year 10

Fortinet Capture the Flag Competition

Sybille took a group of keen coding students to TAFE SA to compete in the Fortinet Capture the Flag Competition on Thursday 18 September Week 9. We had a range of first-time coders to experienced competition participants. In particular our students were commended on their efforts by the event organisers.

SA Schools Constitutional Convention

Two of our Year 11 students Ark and Lauren attended the SA Schools Constitutional Convention held at Parliament House on Friday 19 September. Let’s hear from the students about how their experience was:

“The SA Schools Constitutional Convention provided a valuable experience for us to learn not only about the Australian Constitution and its history, but its importance to government and society, and how it changes and is applied over time. We had an opportunity to talk to members of federal Parliament as well as academics who are experts in civics and constitutions about the changes to the constitution and its purpose, as well as a debate and a mock referendum at the end on the question “Should the Australian Constitution be easier to change?” In a historic first for the SASCC, we ended up at a perfect tie, demonstrating the importance of the state vote and the double majority system.” – Ark, Year 11

“I found the South Australia’s Schools Constitutional Convention (SASCC) an incredibly insightful keynote address on Should the Australian Constitution be easier to change by Dr Joe McIntrye, University of South Australia and Cornelia Koch, University of Adelaide. The was a wonderful experience to engage with discussion with students across Adelaide with the highlight of the was having a vigorous debate in Parliament House before voting in a mock referendum. I would highly recommend this experience for other students interested in politics.” – Lauren, Yr 11

Pathways Update

On Wednesday, 5th November, during Learning Studies, MEGT will present The Defence Industry Careers Program, which is designed to introduce students to STEM careers within Australia’s growing defence industry. Through engaging information sessions, students will gain:

• A clearer understanding of the defence industry
• Access to real-world defence career experiences
• Encouragement to pursue STEM studies and skills development

 For students with a passion for STEM or an aptitude for technical and trade skills, the program offers a glimpse into future-proof, globally relevant, and rewarding career opportunities.

Flinders University Taster Days

Leading academics have created hands-on experiences in areas such as Business, Medicine, Health, Nursing, Animal Behaviour, Criminology, Engineering, Film and TV, Urban and Regional Planning, Cybersecurity, Law, Education and Psychological Science. 

You will have the opportunity to speak to teachers, learn from current students, enjoy a free lunch and work in and tour our state-of-the-art facilities. 

Who should attend?

Anyone:

• Wanting to get a taste of Uni life.
• Still deciding between different courses and careers.
• Keen to meet their teachers.
• Interested in discovering pathways.
• Wanting to hear from industry experts.
• Excited to check out our campus and cutting-edge facilities.

Find your Taster Day and register here.

Year 12 Biology

The Year 12 Biology classes are wrapping up their final assessment on the Evolution Topic and as a special treat their teachers organised for Associate Professor in Evolutionary Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Vera Weisbecker to run a workshop on her evolution game called Go Extinct! during Passion Project time. 

Students were thoroughly engaged and found it a great way to consolidate and apply their knowledge of evolution concepts ‘in the real world’. We thank Vera for her time and passion.

Learning Studies

Looking ahead, the end of the 2025 school year will come up rather quickly and there are some key dates to be aware of.

Year 12s

• Thursday 23 October -Yr 12 Farewell Assembly
• Friday 24 October -Yr 12 Breakfast, signifying the end of classes.
• Wednesday 26 November -Yr 12 Presentation Night

Year 10 & 11 students are expected to attend ASMS until Tuesday 25 November; Central Studies classes for Year 10 and 11 will run until Friday, Week 6, 21 November, then 24 & 25 November are set aside for transition and preparation for 2026.

Yr 10/11 Colour Excursions – 29 October

As we start preparing the Year 10 and 11s for transition and taking over from the Yr 12s, Learning Studies reinforces the concept of community building and engagement. Colour groups will be heading to different locations and activities around Adelaide. The purpose of this initiative is to foster a sense of belonging, encourage collaboration, strengthen relationships and respect, ultimately empowering students to support one another and enhancing our community’s wellbeing.

Please be on the lookout for the excursion forms over the holiday break.

International Science Fair Recap

In Week 7 this term, the ASMS welcomed 10 schools from around the world, Australia and regional South Australia to participate in our annual International Science Fair (ISF). This year’s theme, Challenging Your Perspective saw students use Challenge Based Learning (CBL) to think differently and take new approaches to research an area of science they are passionate about.

Our CBL’s – Space, Atmospheric Science, Resources, Medical & Health, Agriculture, AI & Cyber, Future Materials, Indigenous Australian Perspectives and Choose Your Own allowed ASMS students to build relationships with their peers and visiting students, who share the same area of interest.

Our visiting schools from Canada, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Victoria, Thailand and Naracoorte and Roxby Downs, as well as our students participated in excursions to help further their research, visiting places like the Jam Factory, Lot 14 and MOD in the Adelaide CBD, Kanmantoo Copper Mine, Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park and Costa Mushroom Plant in Monarto.

Seeing students expand their own ways of thinking, working with students from different schooling and cultural backgrounds to work together to produce amazing work showcased in the ISF Expo at the end of the week was a highlight for ASMS staff and visiting teachers to experience.

Next year the ASMS looks forward to hosting the International Student Science Fair (ISSF) in Term 4, welcoming over 30 schools from interstate and all over the world to participate in an even more exciting week of events. 

Homestay Opportunities in Term 4

At the ASMS we host short international Study Tours, and we are looking for families to host students from Japan while they are in Adelaide in Term 4, from Sunday 19 October to Friday 24 October.

Over their almost week-long stay you will be responsible for them getting to school and home again as well as showing them the amazing sights of Adelaide. For this type of homestay, you will receive some reimbursement for the time your student is with you! This means you’re not out of pocket while showing them our beautiful state. For more information and how to apply, check out our website here.

Primary Maths Extension Group Session 3

On Thursday 4 September, the Primary Mathematics Extension Group (PMEG) students showcased their learning at the International Science Fair Poster Presentation. Each student designed and carried out a mathematical investigation connected to the theme Growing Mathematically and confidently shared their findings with an audience of students, parents, teachers and international guests.

We were so impressed by the inquiry skills and creativity that the primary participants demonstrated as they explored ideas such as population growth, the influence of wheel size on speed, the role of variables in crystal growth, the appearance of Fibonacci sequences in nature, and the differences between simple and compound interest—to name just a few. The ASMS mentors showed passion, care and initiative in facilitating all three of the PMEG events and supporting the PMEG students throughout their journey.

A special thank you Felix, Caden, Matthew, Zac, Carol, Sara and Amritha for their leadership and commitment to make this year’s PMEG a great success.

R U OK? Day

The ASMS school community came together for a lovely BBQ lunch, to celebrate R U OK Day. Thanks to all the staff and student helpers – the lunch ran smoothly, and it was a good chance to catchup and chat in the sunshine.

Service Club Christmas Donations

For many years the ASMS Service Club have collected non-perishable food and gifts from the school community, to donate to St Vincent de Paul – who given these to families in need at Christmas time. I know Christmas is a little way off – but I just wanted to give the school community plenty of time to perhaps put some items aside that can be brought in next term.

Gifts could be anything suitable for small children up to teenagers and adults. Food items that would make a Christmas Day special are always appreciated.

Thanks,
Debbie
Service Club Coordinator

Men’s Health Forum hosted by Louise Miller-Frost MP

There is an upcoming Men’s Health Forum in our community that will be hosted by Louise Miller-Frost MP, Federal Member for Boothby and Dan Repacholi MP, the Special Envoy for Men’s Health at Unley High School on 13 October from 6-8pm. This free event is designed to support men with practical advice on physical health, mental wellbeing, and community connection. Everyone is welcome, and tickets are available here.

Library News

Read the latest update from the library by downloading the link below.

Need help? Get in touch with ICT

If you are having any issues with the portal, or Daymap, please get in touch with by emailing ict@asms.sa.edu.au.